ECCT Act 2026: New Identity Verification Rules for UK Company Directors
The Biggest Change to UK Company Law in Decades
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act (ECCT) is reshaping how UK companies are registered and maintained. For non-resident entrepreneurs registering a UK Limited company in 2026, understanding these new identity verification requirements is essential.
What Changed Under the ECCT Act?
1. Mandatory Identity Verification
Every company director and Person with Significant Control (PSC) must now verify their identity with Companies House. This applies to new companies, existing companies, and new appointments.
2. How Verification Works
Companies House offers two routes: direct verification using their digital service with biometric checks, or through an Authorised Corporate Service Provider (ACSP). For non-UK residents, using an ACSP is often the most practical route.
3. Registered Office Scrutiny
Companies House can now challenge and reject registered office addresses. Addresses must be appropriate — meaning documents can be delivered and acknowledged there.
4. Stricter Company Name Controls
The Registrar can reject company names that could mislead the public or suggest connections to governments or protected organizations.
What This Means for Non-Resident Entrepreneurs
Before the ECCT Act, a non-resident could register a UK LTD in under 24 hours with minimal verification. Now, identity verification adds a mandatory step. While this increases processing time, it also strengthens the legitimacy of UK companies globally.
For Polish and other non-UK entrepreneurs, working with an ACSP is strongly recommended. An ACSP can verify your identity without requiring UK travel and handle ongoing compliance.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Consequences include company strike-off, director disqualification up to 15 years, civil fines, and criminal liability for intentional false filing.
How to Stay Compliant
- Use a reputable formation agent that is an Authorised Corporate Service Provider
- Prepare identity documents: valid passport, proof of address not older than 3 months
- Maintain accurate records — Companies House can demand evidence for any filing
- File on time: Confirmation Statement annually, Annual Accounts within 9 months, CT600 within 12 months
Bottom Line
The ECCT Act makes UK company formation more complex in 2026 — but also more reputable. Work with an authorized service provider that understands both UK regulations and your home country requirements.
Contact us at [email protected] or book a free consultation at calendly.com/semperparatus. We handle the entire process for non-resident entrepreneurs.
